A lot of new lawyers are more knowledgeable about recent law than partners with 30 or 40 years experience who let the paralegals do the research and heavy lifting.
Also, the last experience of the ‘silverbacks’ with legal scholarship may have been snoozing through a continuing education seminar.
Noobs are often ‘hungrier’ as well as less jaded, and more energetic and determined to establish a reputation.
Just sayin’, as young surgeons often are familiar with the latest procedures, etc.
But as you recognize, it isn’t at all unusual for age and treachery to trump youth and enthusiasm.